BLAND NAMED OUTSTANDING CONSERVATION EDUCATOR IN SC
COLUMBIA, SC….Hugh Bland, Agricultural Education Teacher at the Strom Thurmond Technology Center in Johnston, SC, was named the Outstanding Conservation Educator in South Carolina by the SC Association of Conservation Districts at a special ceremony held during its annual conference at the Kingston Plantation in Myrtle Beach, January 5, 2007, according to John W. Parris, state director of public affairs with the SC FFA Association.
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| Hugh Bland addresses conservationists after being named the Outstanding Conservation Educator in South Carolina. Looking on is Von P. Snelgrove, Director of Conservation Districts with the SC Department of Natural Resources. |
The award is designed to recognize teachers who go beyond the call of duty to instill in their students an understanding and appreciation of the wise use and management of natural resources. Mr. Bland has coached more than 30 teams to win state championship titles including the SC Envirothon, Forestry, Agronomy, Horticulture and Landscape-Nursery Career Development Events and compete in national finals. He has assisted in producing a number of Regional and State FFA Star Farmers or FFA Stars in Agribusiness during his career. His students consistently receive college scholarships for their superb academic achievement in agricultural education and natural resources science.
Previously named the Outstanding Agricultural Educator in South Carolina by the Clemson University Collegiate FFA Organization, Mr. Bland has been awarded the Honorary American FFA Degree by the 495,000 member National FFA Organization.
Mr. Bland was nominated for this prestigious conservation education award by the Edgefield Conservation District Commissioners.